<p>By: Steve Markenson, Vice President, Research & Insights, FMI</p><img src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/blog-images/quinoa-veggie-salad.tmb-large-350-.jpg?Culture=en&sfvrsn=de02a467_1" style="float:right;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:15px;" alt="Quinoa salad" class="-align-right" sf-size="100" /><p>There’s something special about bringing a dish to a potluck that you know will be both delicious and inclusive. Over the years, I’ve made it a habit to prepare meals using fresh produce, ensuring that anyone — whether vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply health-conscious — has something tasty to enjoy. And let’s be honest, a bright, colorful platter of fresh fruits or veggies never fails to make a table look more inviting.</p><p>I remember one particular summer gathering where I brought a fresh Mediterranean quinoa salad. Loaded with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers and a zesty lemon dressing, it was a hit. More than a few people approached me asking for the recipe, surprised that something so simple and fresh could be so satisfying. What I appreciated most was knowing that those who typically face challenges in finding suitable options at potlucks — like my friend Stephanie, who avoids gluten, and my wife Lynn, a vegetarian — had something they could genuinely enjoy.</p><h5>Informed by Research</h5><p>The truth is, the demand for fresh produce is growing. According to FMI’s <a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/the-power-of-produce-2025"><em>The Power of Produce 2025</em></a>, the produce department was a growth leader in 2024. Fresh fruit and vegetable sales hit an all-time high of $92.3 billion, proving that more people are recognizing the benefits of eating fresh. </p><p>Price remains a top concern for many, with 37% ranking it as the most important factor when purchasing fresh produce. At the same time, 45% of consumers prioritize nutrition and health benefits among their top three reasons for choosing fresh fruits and vegetables. These numbers highlight an important trend: while people are increasingly drawn to fresh produce, affordability and awareness still shape their buying decisions.</p><h5>How Social Media Influences Meal Inspiration</h5><p>Social media has become a powerful tool for meal inspiration, product discovery and new ways to enjoy produce. Nearly half of shoppers have found fresh ways to prepare fruits and vegetables through platforms like YouTube, which leads in meal planning inspiration. Trends like #cucumbersalad even helped drive an 8.8% increase in fresh cucumber volume sales. With 94% of produce shoppers actively using social media, and 36% discovering new fruits and vegetables through these platforms, it’s clear that digital spaces are shaping the way we eat — especially for younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials. I’ve personally found countless ideas online, from creative salad combinations to unique ways of incorporating fresh produce into everyday meals.</p><p>That’s why I see potlucks as an opportunity. When we bring dishes made with fresh, vibrant ingredients, we not only contribute to the health of our friends and family but also inspire others to incorporate more produce into their own meals. Whether it’s a fruit salad, a veggie-packed grain bowl, or even a homemade dip with fresh-cut vegetables, these choices make a difference.</p><p><a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/store/ProductFormPublic/the-power-of-produce-2025" class="button">Download The Power Of Produce</a></p>
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